Though tiny in stature, three to four inches long and weighing less than 0.2 ounces, hummingbirds provide huge thrills to birdwatchers across the state as the ruby throated species arrives in north Georgia in late March or early April and are welcome guests until fall migration. Upon arrival, the female immediately begins building her nest (a little over one inch in diameter) often on a slender branch parallel to or dipping slightly towards the ground or in a dense shrub. There she will raise one to two broods, laying two eggs close in size to a navy bean or pea for each brood.
While those who enjoy birdwatching have more than likely spotted the colorful ruby throated species darting in for a quick drink at a feeder or hovering over a flower, but many may be surprised to know that eleven species have been sighted and documented across Georgia. Many of these visit in the winter, so keeping a feeder filled and refraining from the removal of spent vegetation until spring will increase the rare chance of seeing one of the other species as they travel through Georgia. While the other species do not nest here, the vegetation will provide shelter for hummingbirds and for other pollinators during winter months. Research affirms that day length, not availability of feeders, determines migration; therefore, keeping a stocked feeder past October is not a detriment to these beautiful birds. Quite the opposite is correct.
So, how can we best attract hummers to our yards? First, food sources are needed. Tube shaped flowers in warmer shades of, red, yellow, and orange will attract these fascinating birds. Planting patches of native flowers such as cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis),or jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) are good choices. Native vines such as trumpet-creeper(Campsis radicans) or coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) are great additions as well. Non-native flowers can, of course, be a draw as well, but the natives serve to provide a second source of food needed—soft bodied insects for protein. In addition to flowers and insects, an easy nectar made from sugar and water (a ratio of one part sugar to four parts water) will supplement their diet as well. Boil water for a couple of minutes, add sugar and stir to dissolve. Let it cool and fill clean feeders (a diluted solution of vinegar or bleach can be used for cleaning feeders and then rinsed well; dish detergent is not recommended as it can leave a residue). Space feeders out at least fifteen feet apart or better yet out of sight from one another as these little guys have big egos and are territorial! Replace often, even as quickly as one to two days in very hot weather if the solution appears cloudy.
Water is also an important consideration. You may see these beauties drinking from a bird bath, but to enjoy seeing them bathing and preening their feathers, misting or dripping water is preferred. Solar misters are an economical addition to traditional birdbaths.
Finally, the birds need branches or dense shrubs for nesting and branches, wires, or some other type of perches situated fairly close to the feeders. Conifer trees planted nearby offer a good place to perch after enjoying some nectar from the feeder.
A little effort and planning will yield much enjoyment for both you and your feathered visitors!
The author of this article, Molly Zablan, is a Paulding UGA Extension Master Gardener. Master Gardeners are trained to provide education for homeowners on horticulture, sustainable landscaping, and environmentally friendly gardening practices using unbiased, research-based information from the University of Georgia. For more information, contact University of Georgia Cooperative Extension in Paulding County to speak with a Master Gardener or County Extension Agent at 770-443-7616 or view our online resources at www.ugaextension.org/paulding
